The Tsaatan (or Dukkha) are an ethnic minority who fled to Mongolia from Russia during WWII. It&rsqu

The Tsaatan (or Dukkha) are an ethnic minority who fled to Mongolia from Russia during WWII. It’s a small group, less than 300 people according to the most recent census, mostly living near Tsaagan Nuur.

They herd reindeer for milk, which they make into yogurt and cheese. Over centuries, the reindeer have been bred to have spines strong enough for riding. They hunt for meat, killing a reindeer is rare. 

Photos by Joel Santos.